I'd say it's perfectly fine to give randoms some gold, make the contests seem unbiased since most winners are highly active forumers. And as for the 150 gold I could just support WG and buy me a tiny kit instead of having to work for it.

This list includes people who are not forum members. Entry was automatic. The only requirement to get your name in the drawing was to earn any mastery badge in any tier III tank. As long as you have a wargaming account you qualify, no forum post or entry needed.